Work-study comes in two contract types: the apprenticeship contract and the professionalisation contract. They share similarities, but follow different logics. Here is how to choose.
In summary: apprenticeship targets a diploma and is aimed mainly at young people (initial training); professionalisation targets a qualification and also suits adults and career changers (continuing education). For a first diploma, apprenticeship is often the natural choice; for rapid upskilling, the professionalisation contract is the right fit.
The apprenticeship contract
It aims at obtaining a diploma or a title registered with the RNCP (from CAP to master's degree). It fits within an initial training pathway.
- Eligibility: mainly 16-29 year-olds (no age limit for people with disabilities or business founders).
- Objective: a state-recognised diploma.
- Duration: from 6 mois à 3 ans (sometimes 4).
- Advantage: income tax exemption up to the annual SMIC, and a hiring incentive for the employer (up to 5 000 €, or even 6 000 € for an apprentice with a disability, for recent contracts).
The professionalisation contract
It targets a professional qualification (diploma, title, CQP or branch-recognised qualification) and falls under continuing education.
- Eligibility: young people aged 16 à 25 ans and job seekers aged 26 ans and over, with no age limit.
- Objective: an operational qualification, often for a career change.
- Duration: generally 6 à 12 mois (up to 24-36 months in certain cases).
- Advantage: higher minimum pay for adults.
Comparison table
| Criterion | Apprenticeship | Professionalisation |
|---|---|---|
| Logic | Initial training | Continuing education |
| Objective | Diploma / RNCP title | Professional qualification |
| Main audience | 16-29 ans | Young people + job seekers (any age) |
| Typical duration | 6 mois à 3 ans | 6 à 12 mois |
| Pay | 27 % à 100 % du SMIC | 55 % à 100 % du SMIC |
How to decide?
For a first diploma, apprenticeship is often the natural choice. For rapid upskilling or a career change, the professionalisation contract is the right fit.
In both cases, the principle is the same: learning a trade in a company while following a training course, with employee status and a salary. To compare exact salaries, read our article understanding your work-study pay and try the pay simulator.
Once you have chosen your contract, start your company search with our work-study listings and our method for finding a company.